Southampton Astronomy

Compact Objects and Time Domain Astronomy

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At the University of Southampton, we value diversity and equality. We are taking action and are committed to promoting an open and inclusive environment where students and staff of all backgrounds can thrive.

We foster a continuous and open dialogue on issues of diversity and equity both at group level and at University level. In addition to the University policies on equality and diversity, the School of Physics and Astronomy has implemented specific policies and schemes to support staff and students. For example we have a Core Hours Policy dedicated to ensuring that all staff and students can fully participate in departmental life, including those who may need flexible working hours or have caring commitments. The School also supports the Women’s Physics Network, a network of students and academic staff that organise events to raise awareness of the importance of gender equality and diversity, and to promote the career development of women in physics. Both the University of Southampton and the School of Physics and Astronomy are proud to hold Athena Swan Silver Awards and IoP Juno Champion status.

At the Astronomy group level we have created an ED&I working group to implement concrete actions to make our group more inclusive, diverse and welcoming. These range from re-assessing our hiring practices and how we select seminar speakers to bystander intervention training and supervisor training, as well as a commitment to invite trained professionals to educate the group on ED&I-related topics.

The University, School and Astronomy group do not tolerate discriminatory behaviour. The University has a strong policy against harassment, bullying and victimisation and clear formal and informal procedures to deal with complaints from students and staff - see here

Links on the right show some of the resources and networks that are available to support current and prospective students and staff at the University of Southampton.